U.S. Diplomatic Push Intensifies as Blinken Heads to Israel for Ceasefire Talks

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is traveling to Israel as part of a diplomatic effort to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The U.S., along with mediators Qatar and Egypt, is optimistic but cautious about closing the deal. Talks are set to continue in Cairo later this week.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to arrive in Israel on Sunday, as Washington intensifies diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, ending the 10-month-old war between Israel and Hamas. This marks Blinken's tenth trip to the region since the conflict began in October last year.

A senior Biden administration official expressed optimism but noted ongoing challenges. "We've bridged remaining gaps in a way that sets the deal for closure and implementation," the official stated. Blinken will meet with Israeli Prime Minister and other senior officials, in the context of a feared regional escalation following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.

Meetings in Cairo are planned for next week to conclude the ceasefire deal. Amid cautious optimism from Israel's negotiating team, Hamas accused Israel of adding conditions to hinder the process. Despite peace talks, violence continues, with recent Israeli strikes in Gaza causing multiple casualties.

(With inputs from agencies.)